The Kune Kune pig originates from New Zealand. Their name is pronounced Cooney Cooney, and means fat and round in Maori.
They were kept by the Maoris for meat, not in enclosures but free where they scavenged around the dwellings. This probably explains the extremely laid back temperament and love of humans. This behavior makes the Kune pig an ideal first breed for those new to pig husbandry.
The breed was close to extinction until Michael Willis and John Simister in 1976 took it upon themselves to buy all 18 remaining pigs and form a New Zealand Kune Kune pig association. Today the pig is very popular and the population is up to 1000 in New Zealand alone. With an established population in Britain of about six hundred pure bred registered pigs.
Kune Kune pigs vary from 24" to 30" high and weigh between 140-220 lbs. There small stature means the Kune kune pig does not cut up the land like other breeds of pig. They are covered in long hair, which can be straight, wavy or curly. There is a wide range of colours, from cream through gold, tan and brown to black. They also come in a variety of spotty colours.
An interesting feature is they have a pair of tassels under their chin called Piri Piri. They have a medium to short head with either prick or semi lop ears.